confessional

by James Redfern

forgive me, Foreman, for i have sinned.

it has been two pay periods

since my last confession.

over these last pay periods,

i have not made my quota.

i have fallen short every day.

i took a full hour for lunch

wednesday last.

i took a full shift off work

due to a medical illness.

               I see, said the Foreman

               behind his screen.

               these are serious offenses.

               are you repentant?

yes, Foreman.

               increase your mandatory quota

               by seven percent.

               decrease your hourly wage

               by three percent.

thank you, Foreman.

               Profit be with you.

Profit be with you.